Coronavirus: French Open Kicks Off as Covid-19 Cases Rise in France

On a rather unusual start to things at Roland Garros — postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic, Day 1 of the 2020 French Open arrived in September instead of May, with only 1,000 spectators allowed instead of more than 30,000 as Covid-19 cases rise in France.

Following the coronavirus restrictions in Paris, masked people hurried along the deserted alleys, looking for a cover from the rain and heavy winds.

Most shops were closed and the grounds were eerily quiet as anticipated by tennis fan Francoise Houllier.

“It’s true we also come here for the atmosphere and now, I think it’s going to be lacking the usual vibe but that’s that. I’m hoping it won’t rain too much today.”

Organisers have repeatedly had to scale back their ambitions as virus cases have climbed.

They had been planning to have 11,500 spectators per day three weeks ago.

That was then scaled back to 5,000 per day and now to only 1,000.

Social distancing and hand-washing are being enforced by a “Sanitary Brigade” of four young women wearing white vests throughout the grounds to remind people of the anti-Covid measures.

The 2020 French Open lasts until October 11.

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